Patient Educators Update: Common Patient Education Mistakes
Introduction
- Host: Chuck
- Guest: Fran London, Patient Education Specialist at Phoenix Children's Hospital and author of "No Time to Teach"
- Discusses common mistakes in patient education
Eight Most Common Patient Education Mistakes
1. Make Assumptions
- Assumptions can stop conversations and damage relationships
- Example: Discussing birth control with a gay patient
- Solution: Conduct assessments, ask questions
2. Teach Before Knowing the Audience
- Understanding a patient’s knowledge and beliefs is crucial
- Example: A nurse presumed incorrect diabetes management for a knowledgeable patient
- Solution: Proper assessment to tailor education
3. "Talk Talk Talk"
- Engaging in irrelevant conversations wastes time
- Patients may steer conversations off-topic
- Solution: Stay focused on the educational topic
4. Lecture
- Lectures can be inappropriate or irrelevant
- Example: Doctor lectured on issues unrelated to patient’s needs
- Solution: Avoid monologues, engage in dialogue
5. Don’t Let Learner Interrupt
- Adults learn best when they can ask questions
- Missing "teachable moments" by not allowing interruptions
- Solution: Encourage questions and interactions
6. Listen in a Hurry
- Rushing through conversations prevents active listening
- System pressures can lead to hurried interactions
- Solution: Be present and attentive during patient interactions
7. Ignore or Make Light of Concerns
- Acknowledge and address all patient concerns
- Example: Dismissing parental concerns about immunizations
- Solution: Listen and explore patient concerns fully
8. Teach When the Problem is Not Information
- Some issues aren't solved by more education
- Example: Adolescent with spina bifida needing environmental changes, not more education
- Solution: Identify the real issue, sometimes beyond lack of information
Conclusion
- Discussed the importance of understanding and engaging with patients effectively
- Mentioned Fran’s book "No Time to Teach" and where it can be purchased
- Contact Fran London via Twitter @notimetotech or her website notimetoteach.com
Closing Remarks
- Show brought to you by Synergy Broadcast Systems
- They offer video-on-demand based patient education systems
- Contact them at Synergybroadcast.com
This summary captures the key points discussed regarding common mistakes in patient education and emphasizes the importance of assessment and effective communication.